UK unveils new next generation fighter jet called Tempest

Tempest is expected to complement the F-35 and eventually replace Typhoon.

It is understood that £2 billion in initial funding will be set out to oversee the design and build of the aircraft, which will be operational in 2035. The project is a joint venture between BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, MBDA UK Ltd and Leonardo. Continue reading https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-unveils-new-next-generation-fighter-jet-called-tempest/


More:

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-44848294 
• https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/farnborough/2018/07/16/introducing-tempest-the-uks-next-gen-fighter/ 
• https://sputniknews.com/military/201807161066394273-uk-tempest-jet-jv/

MoD press release
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/britain-to-take-leading-role-in-next-generation-air-power-as-defence-secretary-launches-combat-air-strategy


Britain to take leading role in next-generation air power, as Defence Secretary launches Combat Air Strategy


Setting out Britain’s determination to remain a world-leader in the combat air sector, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has today unveiled a concept model of a brand-new, next-generation fighter jet as he launched a comprehensive strategy with a bold statement of intent for future British air power.

Announcing the publication of the new Combat Air Strategy at the Farnborough International Airshow, the Defence Secretary said he had taken action to strengthen the UK’s role as a global leader in the sector and to protect key skills across the UK industrial base.
He outlined the Strategy in front of the combat aircraft concept model which has been developed by UK industry in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence – being publicly unveiled for the first time, it acts as a powerful demonstration of the UK’s world leading technical capability and industrial expertise.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:

We have been a world leader in the combat air sector for a century, with an enviable array of skills and technology, and this Strategy makes clear that we are determined to make sure it stays that way. It shows our allies that we are open to working together to protect the skies in an increasingly threatening future - and this concept model is just a glimpse into what the future could look like.
British defence industry is a huge contributor to UK prosperity, creating thousands of jobs in a thriving advanced manufacturing sector, and generating a UK sovereign capability that is the best in the world.

Today’s news leaves industry, our military, the country, and our allies in no doubt that the UK will be flying high in the combat air sector as we move into the next generation.

For the last 100 years the UK combat air industrial sector has ensured the UK has been at the forefront of technological and engineering developments, delivering world leading capability to the RAF and our allies. This Strategy will ensure the UK continues to maintain this leading position.

The Strategy outlines the way in which the UK will acquire future Combat Air capabilities to maximise the overall value the UK derives from the sector. The framework will balance military capability, international influence, and economic and prosperity benefit along with the overall cost.

It reinforces the commitment in the 2015 Strategic Defence and Security Review to deliver the Future Combat Air System Technology Initiative (FCAS TI). The Government, in partnership with industry, is taking steps to grow existing world-leading design engineering capacity and skills, ensuring that the UK continues to be at the cutting edge of combat air technology.

The concept aircraft has been put together by British firms including BAE Systems, Leonardo, MBDA and Rolls-Royce, which have joined together with the RAF Rapid Capabilities Office to form ‘Team Tempest’ to pursue the opportunity.

Team Tempest brings together the UK’s world leading industry and sovereign capabilities across future combat air’s four key technology areas: advanced combat air systems and integration (BAE Systems); advanced power and propulsion systems (Rolls-Royce); advanced sensors, electronics and avionics (Leonardo) and advanced weapon systems (MBDA).

The MOD will now set up a dedicated team to deliver the combat air acquisition programme. They will deliver a business case by the end of the year, and have initial conclusions on international partners by next summer – with engagement with potential partners beginning immediately.

Early decisions around how to acquire the capability will be confirmed by the end of 2020, before final investment decisions are made by 2025. The aim is then for a next generation platform to have operational capability by 2035.

The UK is already a world-leader in the combat air sector, with a mix of skills and technologies unique in Europe, supporting over 18,000 highly skilled jobs. The sector delivers a turnover in excess of £6bn a year and has made up over 80% of defence exports from the UK over the last ten years.

Investment in combat air technology, combined with the strengths of UK industry, has resulted in the UK being the only Tier 1 partner with the US on the F-35 Lightning II programme, with British industry delivering 15% by value of every F-35 built. The UK has been able to help define the operational capabilities of the aircraft, while reinforcing UK industrial capability, critical skills and supporting wider economic prosperity.

The UK also continues to lead the way in combat air power as one of the four partner nations in the Eurofighter Typhoon programme. With more than 20,000 flying hours on deployed operations to date, the Typhoon delivers world leading capability, unparalleled reliability and proven interoperability with our allies. The MOD will continue to invest in the Typhoon for decades to come, with the best technologies being carried forward on to next-generation systems.

The F-35 Lightning II and the Typhoon are two complementary multi-role combat aircraft that will make up the RAF’s combat air fleet, placing the UK at the forefront of combat air technology - with the Typhoon expected to remain in UK service until at least 2040.

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, said:

The Combat Air Strategy will bring together the best of our people, industry and international partners to support the RAF lift-off into the next century of air power. Team Tempest demonstrates our commitment in ensuring that we continue to build our capabilities, draw upon our experience and history to bring forward a compelling vision for the next generation fighter jet. In last 100 years, the RAF has led the way and today’s announcement is a clear demonstration of what lies ahead.

Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive of BAE Systems, said:

The UK’s combat air capability, built by generations of committed and highly skilled people through a century long partnership between the RAF and industry, is admired the world over. The UK Government’s Combat Air Strategy is a powerful statement of intent to invest in next generation combat air systems. We’re proud to play a key role in this important programme, with our world leading technology, capability and skills, which will contribute to the UK’s defence and prosperity for decades to come.

Warren East, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce, said:

As the UK’s long-term power and propulsion partner, we warmly welcome the Government’s announcement of a Combat Air Strategy. The UK’s capability in combat air power and propulsion is at a critical point and this long-term commitment from Government will allow us to protect the expertise and key skills that are vital to retaining sovereign capability. It ensures that we are able to develop and deliver the advanced technologies that will be required in future combat air systems to help ensure our national security.

Norman Bone, Chairman and Managing Director of Leonardo in the UK, said:

As Britain’s national champion for advanced defence electronics, we are proud to be a part of Team Tempest. Work we have conducted under research and development programmes such as FOAS and FCAS has significantly advanced our thinking with regards to the complex electronics required for future air combat scenarios and we stand ready to support the future needs of the Royal Air Force. We are excited about the work that’s already been done, and the work still to do, on the FCAS TI programme and are all set for these activities to feed into the Typhoon successor programme.

Chris Allam, Managing Director of MBDA UK, said:

MBDA is proud to be providing its complex weapons expertise to the Team Tempest partnership. Delivering effects is central to next generation combat air systems, and we will continue to invest in developing our world leading complex weapons and novel technologies to ensure the UK retains sovereign operational advantage and freedom of action in Combat Air. The strong partnership (through the Portfolio Management Agreement) between MBDA and the MoD has already changed the paradigm for complex weapons developments in the UK, delivered world leading capabilities to the UK Armed Forces and provided savings in terms of both time and money. The Team Tempest partnership has the potential to do the same for Combat Air.

Rolls-Royce is the latest to develop a flying taxi [video]

https://youtu.be/OGz26AaSXi8

Blue sky thinking – Rolls-Royce unveils EVTOL unmanned air taxi at Farnborough Airshow

press release

Rolls-Royce has unveiled a concept electric vertical take-off and landing (EVTOL) vehicle at the Farnborough International Airshow 2018. The design could be adapted for personal transport, public transport, logistics and military applications and is based upon technologies that already exist or are currently under development. It could take to the skies as soon as the early 2020s.

The Rolls-Royce EVTOL project is part of our strategy to ‘champion electrification’ and realise our ambition to become the world’s leading industrial technology company. It builds upon experience gained providing hybrid electric propulsion for trains, naval vessels and other applications, and our expertise in gas turbines, VTOL technology, systems analytics and aerospace regulation and certification. We would expect any commercial introduction of the EVTOL to involve working in collaboration with airframers and will seek a range of strategic partners for aspects of the electrical system.

The initial concept vehicle uses gas turbine technology to generate electricity to power six electric propulsors specially designed to have a low noise profile. It also has a battery for energy storage. In this hybrid-EVTOL configuration it could carry four or five passengers at speeds up to 250mph for approximately 500 miles, would not require re-charging – as the battery is charged by the gas turbine – and would be able to utilise existing infrastructure such as heliports and airports.

We believe that given the work we are doing today to develop hybrid electric propulsion capabilities, this model could be available by the early to mid 2020s, provided that a viable commercial model for its introduction can be created.
The wings are able to rotate 90 degrees, enabling the vehicle to take off or land vertically. The propellers on the wing could fold away once the craft has reached cruising height, reducing drag and cabin noise, with the craft relying upon the two rear propellers for thrust.

The EVTOL – or personal air mobility – market is emerging as a result of technological advances and a need to meet the demands that will be placed upon conventional transport systems as more of the world’s population lives in large cities plagued by congestion. EVTOL will also play a role in meeting the requirement for more efficient travel with fewer emissions.

Rob Watson, who heads up Rolls-Royce’s Electrical team, said: “Electrification is an exciting and inescapable trend across industrial technology markets and while the move to more electric propulsion will be gradual for us, it will ultimately be a revolution. Building on our existing expertise in electric technologies and aviation, Rolls-Royce is actively exploring a range of possible markets and applications for electric and hybrid electric flight. We are well placed to play a leading role in the emerging world of personal air mobility and will also look to work in collaboration with a range of partners.

“Rolls-Royce has a strong track record as pioneers in aviation. From developing the first turbo-prop and jet engines, to creating the world’s most efficient large civil aero-engine and vertical take-off and landing solutions, we have a very strong pedigree. As the third generation of aviation begins to dawn, it’s time to be pioneers yet again.”

The initial Rolls-Royce EVTOL concept uses an M250 gas turbine which is embedded within the rear of the aircraft and modified as part of a hybrid electric propulsion system. The M250 is a highly successful Rolls-Royce engine. Over 31,000 have been delivered since the first version entered service over half a century ago, with an estimated 16,000 currently in service. It has powered more than 170 different helicopter and fixed wing civil and military applications and the whole fleet has clocked up more than 220 million flying hours.The Rolls-Royce EVTOL concept

• Flexible aircraft platform for personal, commercial passenger, cargo and military applications
• Tilting wings for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL)
• At cruise height the propellers on the wing fold away to reduce drag and cabin noise, the craft then uses the two rear propellers for thrust
• Versatile 4/5 seat cabin
• Range 500 miles, cruise speed 250 mph
• M250-based hybrid propulsion system
• The M250 hybrid electric engine will deliver approx. 500kW electrical power
• High energy density battery to provide additional climb power
• 6 propulsion/lift motors with embedded power electronics
• Offering customers new capability at vehicle, system and component level

UK mulls sixth generation fighter project

https://www.aerosociety.com/news/uk-mulls-sixth-generation-fighter-project/

Farnborough Air Show 2018 Preview and Day 0

Next week sees the biennial Farnborough Air Show, the leading international showcase for aerospace. TIM ROBINSON, BILL READ and KHALEM CHAPMAN look at what to expect from this year’s 2018 event. Continue Reading https://www.aerosociety.com/news/farnborough-air-show-2018-preview/




TIM ROBINSON, BILL READ and KHALEM CHAPMAN provide a look at some of the most exciting news and and highlights ahead of the first trade day at the Farnborough Air Show 2018. Continue Reading https://www.aerosociety.com/news/farnborough-air-show-2018-day-zero/

Bombardier to Introduce Head-up Display and Enhanced Vision System Option on Best-selling Challenger 350 Aircraft

Business Aircraft, Press Release

• Lightweight Head-up Display (HUD) from Rockwell Collins will make the best equipped cockpit in the super mid-size segment even better
• The Head-up Display and Enhanced Vision System (EVS) will be available as an option on new Challenger 350 aircraft orders and as a retrofit on in-service models
• The HUD and EVS bring unparalleled situational awareness and improvements in low-visibility conditions
• The Challenger 350 jet was the top-selling aircraft of the super mid-size segment in 2017, and provides optimal cabin comfort with an ultra-quiet in-flight experience

Montreal, July 9, 2018 - Bombardier today announced that it will be offering Head-up Display and Enhanced Vision System as an option on its best-selling Challenger 350 business jets. The HUD and EVS will complement the Challenger 350 aircraft’s best-in-class baseline offering. These systems will further expand the advanced avionics functionalities of the aircraft, such as the powerful Synthetic Vision System (SVS) and sophisticated MultiScan™ weather radar, to reduce pilot workload and enhance overall situational awareness.

“Added to the Challenger 350 aircraft’s already well-equipped flight deck, the HUD and EVS option will enhance the pilot’s situational awareness to provide passengers with an even smoother flight,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “The Challenger 350 jet leads the market in unit sales, and our commitment to continuously innovate and elevate this aircraft clearly demonstrates our promise to offer our customers nothing but the finest experience on board the industry's best-selling business jet.”

The Challenger 350 jet features the best-equipped cockpit in its class. With the addition of the lightweight HUD, the aircraft will allow pilots to fly eyes forward in all phases of flight, most crucially during takeoff and landing. The flight deck on the Challenger 350 aircraft provides critical flight information onto the HUD’s transparent screen. Without needing to look down, pilots can respond with greater speed and precision, while they simultaneously assess their surroundings.

For maximum situational awareness in all flight conditions, the HUD is elevated with a powerful enhanced vision system. The advanced EVS camera transmits live infrared imagery from outside the aircraft to the HUD, revealing runway lighting, surrounding terrain and possible obstacles on the runway. The HUD and EVS combination enables pilots to land with greater confidence. The HUD and EVS will be available as an option on new Challenger 350 aircraft orders and can be installed as a retrofit on in-service models in Bombardier’s extensive network of service centres.

The Challenger 350 aircraft boasts outstanding short-field performance and climbs quickly and directly to 43,000 feet, allowing passengers to reach their destinations efficiently. The aircraft is currently undertaking steep approach certification at London City Airport, a singular advantage that will give operators direct access to one of the world’s great financial centres. Final certification is expected imminently.

Challenger 350 aircraft: Designed with a no-compromise approach, the Challenger 350 aircraft effortlessly blends powerful performance and sleek styling to deliver an unrivalled private jet experience. Industry-leading connectivity, immersive sound and ergonomically-positioned touch screens are seamlessly integrated to create an intuitive and incomparable cabin experience. Paired with impressive high-performance attributes, the Challenger 350 aircraft is designed to access challenging airfields, climb faster, and cruise efficiently while providing a smooth ride. Standing the test of time, the Challenger 300 aircraft series are the best-selling business jets of the last decade.

Airbus to showcase innovative products and services at the Farnborough International Airshow 2018

press release




Toulouse, 11 July 2018 - Airbus SE will present a broad portfolio of innovative products and services at the Farnborough International Airshow 2018 that meet the aerospace industry’s requirements for today and tomorrow.



In the flying and static displays, Airbus will showcase its modern and highly efficient range of commercial aircraft able to seat between 100 and more than 600 passengers. The static display will feature two A220-300s (a test aircraft and an airBaltic aircraft), which, along with the smaller A220-100, represent the newest members of the Airbus single-aisle Family following the recent agreement to take a majority stake in the 100-150 seat aircraft programme. An A321neo will also be on display on the Wednesday of the show week. Airbus’ latest wide-body models, the A330-900neo and A350-1000, will each participate in the Farnborough flying display for the first time. The A330neo, which features new wings and new generation engines, is due to go into service in 2018. Meanwhile, the A350-1000 offers the very latest in aerodynamics and advanced technologies to provide unrivalled efficiencies on long-haul routes. An A330-900neo of launch customer TAP Air Portugal and an A350-1000 of launch operator Qatar Airways will also be on the static display. At the larger end of the Airbus portfolio, a Hi Fly A380 will be on static display during the latter part of the week showing the flexibility of the double-decker aircraft.



Airbus Helicopters will present key market-leading product and capabilities as well as highlight research and development in unmanned solutions. On the static display will be a single-engine H125 helicopter equipped with special sensors and a telemetry kit that allow pilot and aircraft performance to be streamed in real-time to the ground for training applications. The aircraft is due to be handed over during the show to QinetiQ for use with the UK-based Empire Test Pilots’ School. Visitors to Farnborough will also see a full scale mock-up of the VSR700 rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which can bring beyond the horizon surveillance capability to naval ships.



Meanwhile, Airbus Defence and Space will demonstrate its broad product portfolio of military aircraft, space systems, secure communications and UAVs. An A400M military transporter in special Royal Air Force colours will take part in both the flying and static displays. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, the A400M can perform strategic and tactical transport missions and also undertake air-to-air refuelling. Also featured will be the world record holding Zephyr, Airbus’ solar-electric stratospheric unmanned aircraft that combines the advantage of a satellite with the flexibility and persistence of a UAV. Airbus will showcase its world leading secure communications networking and cyber security capability at one of the interactive ‘bubble’ displays at the Airbus Pavilion. Space expertise will feature strongly, including the environmental monitoring programme Copernicus where Airbus designs and manufactures Sentinel satellites. In the show’s ‘Space Zone’, Airbus will exhibit the ExoMars rover prototype that will drive on a simulated Martian surface. The ‘Network for the Sky’ airborne communications solution will also be presented for the first time.



The interactive ‘bubble’ displays in the Pavilion will present four broad key themes for Airbus by illustrating certain related activities. The ‘Future of Flight’ display will show how Airbus is further improving its portfolio and changing the future of mobility with aircraft such as the single-aisle A321LR that can serve new long-haul markets, the H160 helicopter and Urban Air Mobility initiatives such as Vahana and CityAirbus. The ‘Secure World’ display will showcase Airbus’ vision for defence and security including the Future Air Power family of connected systems to respond to the threats of tomorrow. The ‘From Data to Insight’ display will demonstrate how Airbus is harnessing the power of data through digitalisation initiatives such as the Skywise data platform. Another display area will demonstrate how Airbus is committed to developing a sustainable future together with its key partners and stakeholders. Featured projects include the Blade wing laminar flow demonstrator programme conducted under the European Clean Sky research programme. As the second largest supplier to the Royal Air Force and biggest supplier of large aircraft, Airbus will also show its strong support for the RAF’s centenary celebrations.



The Farnborough International Airshow runs from July 16 to 22. Accredited journalists are welcome to visit the Airbus Pavilion’s dedicated press area (OE13) where the majority of announcements will be made. Updates will be available on a dedicated event page of the Airbus Website while aircraft visits can be arranged for accredited media at 09:30am each week day.

Airbus-led consortium to provide European Union with seamless satellite-based coverage of Europe at unprecedented scale and speed

Press Release




Toulouse, 12 July 2018 – The European Commission and the European Space Agency (ESA) have awarded an Airbus-led consortium a contract for the provision of satellite-based seamless coverage of the whole of Europe at very high-resolution. The consortium includes Airbus Defence and Space, Planet, Deimos Imaging, IGN-France and space4environment. This agreement is part of the Copernicus Earth Observation programme for the European Union (EU).



As part of the contract, six million square kilometres over 39 countries will be covered in 2018 with freshly acquired very high-resolution optical satellite imagery. The result-based approach of the procurement has led European EO industry to federate and respond with a coordinated offer bringing together the strengths of each partner. The contracted solution leverages the latest in remote sensing and imagery processing technologies to deliver new data at an unprecedented scale and speed. The data will feed the geo-information services coordinated by the European Environment Agency with which European institutions and governments implement their environmental and land management policies.



“This contract shows the confidence of ESA in Airbus and its partners to fulfill such a demanding satellite imagery programme,” said François Lombard, Head of the Intelligence Business at Airbus Defence and Space. “We are very proud to drive a consortium gathering such a unique combination of assets and together, we are confident we will deliver high quality full European coverage in record time.”



The high revisit rate of Planet’s imaging system will allow it to image regions that are often covered in cloud, such as Northern Europe or the Alps, while Deimos Imaging and Airbus satellite resources will concentrate on Southern and Central Europe, where higher resolutions are required to map dense urban and suburban areas. A dynamic acquisition strategy and imaging redundancy within the consortium will guarantee the achievement of the coverage objective. Valid images, cloud and haze free, will be selected and combined with a specific Digital Elevation Model (DEM) in order to meet the European Commission and ESA geolocation accuracy specifications.



“This is an important partnership for Planet as it brings together major players in the private and public sectors to leverage our global, daily imagery to do something that has historically been very difficult to achieve,” said Will Marshall, CEO and cofounder of Planet. “Europe is very much ahead of the curve in terms of public-private cooperation and turning data into a public good, and we’re proud to be a part of this.”



“We are very excited to be part of this landmark project,” said Fabrizio Pirondini, CEO at Deimos Imaging. “Our company has enjoyed a long, successful history of supplying satellite products and services to European public entities, such as ESA and EMSA. This contract, one of the largest we have been awarded in our history, demonstrates the value of our partnerships, as well as our increasing role as a key provider of imagery and geo-information products worldwide.”

This dataset will be available to institutional users on a European and national level, and it will serve to create updated information about land cover, as well as land use (for example forests, urban areas, or lakes and rivers) over 39 countries in Europe.

Airbus performs world’s first automatic air-to-air refuelling contact with large aircraft receiver

Press Release

https://youtu.be/0pK3XU2RKns

Royal Australian Air Force KC-30A acts as receiver from A310 tanker



Madrid, 12 July 2018 – Airbus Defence and Space has followed its earlier achievement in demonstrating Automatic Air-to-Air (A3R) refuelling of a fighter with another world-first – the same operation performed with a large receiver aircraft.




In a joint operation with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), which is collaborating with Airbus in development of this pioneering technology, Airbus’ A310 company development tanker performed seven automatic contacts with a RAAF KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport, also made by Airbus.



The system requires no additional equipment on the receiver and is intended to reduce refuelling boom operator workload, improve safety, and optimise the rate of air-to-air refuelling (AAR) in operational conditions to maximise aerial superiority. Airbus has begun work towards introducing the system on the current production A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (A330 MRTT).



During initial approach of the receiver, boom control is performed by the tanker’s Air Refuelling Operator (ARO) as usual. Innovative passive techniques such as image processing are then used to determine the receiver’s refuelling receptacle position and when the automated system is activated, a fully automated flight control system flies and maintains the boom aligned with the receiver’s receptacle. The telescopic beam inside the boom can be controlled in a range of ways including: manually by the ARO; a relative distance-keeping mode; or full auto-mode to perform the contact.



In the 20 June flight off the southern Spanish coast, the A310 tanker performed the scheduled seven contacts over a two-hour test period.



David Piatti, who again acted as Airbus Test ARO, or “boomer”, on the A310, said: “It was extremely impressive to see how accurately the A3R system tracks the receiver. It can be very useful to be able to refuel another tanker or transport, for example to extend its deployment range or to avoid taking fuel back to base, but it is also a challenging operation and this system has the potential to reduce workload and the risk involved.”



The trial was conducted in conjunction with Test Pilots and Flight Test Engineers from the RAAF’s Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU).



Squadron Leader Lawry Benier, Executive Officer for ARDU, said the RAAF were assisting Airbus Defence & Space on the development of A3R and other technologies to increase the utility of the KC-30A within a battlespace.



“It’s very encouraging to come to Spain and see the progress that’s been made with A3R, and be able to witness it firsthand refuelling our KC-30A,” Squadron Leader Benier said.



“Refuelling large receivers is a role RAAF has conducted extensively on operations and exercises, allowing us to extend the reach and responsiveness of our air mobility fleet, as well as keep surveillance aircraft in the air for longer.”

CAAS, EASA and Airbus collaborate to advance safety of UAS in urban environments

press release







Marignane, The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Airbus have agreed to collaborate in the development of safety standards and regulatory requirements for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in urban environments. The tripartite Project Document, which lays out the areas of collaboration, was signed by representatives from CAAS, EASA and Airbus.

The Project Document establishes a framework for the exchange of information and technical expertise among the three parties, to facilitate the development of safety standards and regulatory requirements, as well as operational and technological assessments for the deployment of UAS in urban environments, such as last-mile deliveries, leveraging Airbus’ experience with the ongoing Skyways project1. The parties will also share safety information and learning outcomes from the urban UAS trials. The parties also agreed to jointly organise UAS-themed activities such as educational workshops and seminars.

Mr Kevin Shum, Director-General at CAAS said, “This tripartite partnership is timely as we seek to better define the operating conditions for the growing number of beneficial uses of UAS in urban environments such as Singapore, with aviation and public safety in mind. We look forward to working closely with our partners and sharing our experience gained thus far in developing regulatory requirements for UAS operations in Singapore.”

Mr Patrick Ky, Executive Director at EASA said, “Unmanned Aircraft Systems used in urban environments will shape the future of public transport. We could not find better partners than CAAS and Airbus to develop safety standards for this growing and fascinating technological development.”

Mr Jean-Brice Dumont, Executive Vice President, Engineering at Airbus said, “Airbus has been growing our focus on autonomous air mobility, and this tripartite collaboration is a positive move to shape up the safety regulations of UAS in city environments, turning urban air mobility into a business reality for us. Today, our Skyways UAS has demonstrated its ability to deliver air packages in an urban city. With the strong support of both CAAS and EASA, coupled with our experiences from Skyways, we are confident that safe and reliable urban air delivery will become a reality very soon.”

[1] Skyways is an Airbus’ experimental project which aims to establish seamless multi-modal transportation networks in smart cities. Through Skyways, Airbus aims to develop an airborne infrastructure solution to address the sustainability and efficiency of parcel delivery businesses in large urban environments.

About Airbus
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2017 it generated revenues of €59 billion restated for IFRS 15 and employed a workforce of around 129,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners from 100 to more than 600 seats. Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as one of the world’s leading space companies. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.

General Atomics SkyGuardian Completes First Trans-Atlantic Flight of a MALE RPA

press release




GLOUCESTERSHIRE – 11 July 2018 – Today at 6:51 p.m. (GMT+1) a Medium-altitude, Long-endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) produced by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) made history as it landed at the Royal Air Force (RAF) Fairford in Gloucestershire, UK and became the first MALE RPA to successfully complete a trans-Atlantic flight. The GA-ASI-owned MQ-9B SkyGuardian took off from Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA on July 10th at 12:48 p.m. CDT. The flight covered 3,760 nautical mile flight in 24 hours 2 minutes.

“This historic event was a demonstration of the endurance and civil airspace capability of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian, and it is fitting to do this as part of the centennial celebration of the RAF,” said Linden Blue, CEO, GA-ASI. “The successful flight of the MQ-9B is the culmination of the hard work and innovation of our dedicated employees, and the strong relationships that we enjoy with the RAF, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) and our UK industry partners such as Cobham.”

RAF Fairford will be the site of the RIAT airshow from 13 - 15 July. The MQ-9B will be on static display during the show.

Over the past 10 years, the RAF has operated GA-ASI’s MQ-9 Reaper® RPA in support of the NATO and Coalition operations. The RAF is celebrating its 100-year anniversary (RAF100), so GA-ASI seized the opportunity to fly the newest MQ-9 version, MQ-9B to RIAT. The RAF configuration of MQ-9B will be called PROTECTOR RG Mk1.

MQ-9B is the next generation of GA-ASI’s multi-mission Predator® B fleet. GA-ASI named its baseline MQ-9B aircraft SkyGuardian, and the maritime surveillance variant SeaGuardian. MQ-9B is a “type-certifiable” (STANAG 4671-compliant) version of the MQ-9 Predator B product line. Its development is the result of a five-year, company-funded effort to deliver a RPA that can meet the stringent airworthiness type-certification requirements of various military and civil authorities, including the UK Military Airworthiness Authority (MAA) and the U.S. FAA. Type-certification, together with an extensively tested collision avoidance system, will allow unrestricted operations in all classes of civil airspace.

Paul Armstrong, Senior Vice President of Cobham Aviation Services UK, said: “The SkyGuardian trans-Atlantic flight is a significant and exciting event for both GA-ASI and for the future capability of the RAF. Cobham is proud to have a teaming agreement with GA-ASI for logistics and maintenance services, which builds on our present support of the Reaper Ground Control Stations. We look forward to working with both GA-ASI and the RAF as the PROTECTOR RG Mk1 comes into service.”

High-resolution photos of MQ-9B SkyGuardian are available to qualified media outlets from the listed GA-ASI media contact. For more information on the trans-Atlantic flight, go to http://www.ga-asi.com/trans-atlantic-flight.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is the leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than five million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike. The company also produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Predator, Reaper, and Lynx are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Engine trio has due date for Boeing NMA proposals [feedly]

Engine trio has due date for Boeing NMA proposals
https://theaircurrent.com/aircraft-development/engine-trio-has-due-date-for-boeing-nma-proposals/

 -- via my feedly newsfeed

Boeing's quest for NMA steers it away from its history - The Air Current

https://theaircurrent.com/industry-strategy/boeing-nma-797-launch-ato-target-spruce-goose/

RAF Celebrates 100 Years with Spectacular Flyover in London [feedly]

RAF Celebrates 100 Years with Spectacular Flyover in London
https://theaviationist.com/2018/07/11/raf-celebrates-100-years-with-spectacular-flyover-in-london/

 -- via my feedly newsfeed

Russia’s attack drone prototype to start test flights this year

MOSCOW, July 8. /TASS/. The prototype of Russia’s new heavy attack drone Okhotnik (Hunter) developed by the Sukhoi Aircraft Company will start test flights in 2018, a source in the domestic defense industry told TASS on Sunday. More: http://tass.com/defense/1012351

Airbus Seeks Collaborative Approach to Future Combat Air System

European OEMs should be working together rather than competing to build Europe’s future air combat system (FCAS), according to Airbus Defense and Space CEO Dirk Hoke.

During a pre-Farnborough media briefing, Hoke outlined the challenges and opportunities facing Europe’s aerospace and defense community as it works toward developing a sixth-generation fighter jet over the next two decades. Continue reading https://www.aviationtoday.com/2018/07/11/airbus-seeks-one-european-solution-future-combat-air-system/

Greenpeace drone stunt highlights need for drone detection at nuclear facilities

http://www.pilotweb.aero/news/greenpeace-drone-stunt-1-5599452

Tomorrow’s squadron leaders will be accompanied by drones

The minds of visitors from the aerospace industry and the armed forces, though, will mostly be on the future—and in particular what sort of aircraft will follow the F-35. All around the show will be drones of almost every shape and size. This raises the question: will future combat aircraft need pilots? Continue reading https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2018/07/05/tomorrows-squadron-leaders-will-be-accompanied-by-drones

Bulgaria's First New Plane in Decades Is a Freakishly Cargo Drone

Moving stuff by air may be quick and convenient, but it’s also horridly expensive, accounting for just 1 percent of global shipping by volume—and 35 percent of it by cost. So while autonomous drones dropping a few pounds of snacks or medical supplies are generating plenty of buzz, two Bulgarian brothers see an opening in the long-haul business. And they think they’ve got the tech to start flying hundreds of pounds of cargo over hundreds of miles, no pilot or 747 required. Continue reading https://www.wired.com/story/dronamics-bulgaria-cargo-drone/


Svilen and Konstantin Rangelov have made the first airplane designed in Bulgaria in 70 years, in the form of a fixed-wing cargo drone capable of carrying nearly 800 pounds for up to 1,550 miles. Continue reading:
http://www.thedrive.com/tech/22051/black-swan-cargo-drone-has-800-pound-payload-capacity

PAL-V Flying Car Production Model Makes its Aviation Debut at Farnborough Airshow

press relesae @ Pal-V web [pdf]
https://static.pal-v.com/assets/PAL-V-Flying-Car-Makes-Its-Aviation-Debut-English.pdf



Press release @  prnewswire

World's First Flying Car Production Model Makes Its Aviation Debut at Farnborough Airshow


RAAMSDONKVEER, Netherlands, July 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

From the 16th until the 22nd of July the PAL-V Liberty will have its aviation debut at the Farnborough International Airshow. Between the 16th and 20th of July the PAL-V can be found in hall 4 at stand 4100. On the 21st and the 22nd of July the PAL-V can be found in the static display area. It's the very first time that the PAL-V Liberty is present at an airshow and in the UK.

The past years, PAL-V concentrated all efforts on perfecting its design and setting up the production process and supply chain. Dingemanse is now proud to state that with the PAL-V Liberty, he and his team have successfully brought The Netherlands back into the league of aircraft manufacturers.

Robert Dingemanse, CEO of PAL-V, stated: "The production model is the moment of truth. The moment where the wall between fiction and facts is torn down. A production model is the last stage in the R&D process before starting full production and delivery. All certifications required for commercialization will be granted on the basis of this production model. It's the pivotal point that separates pioneers from dreamers."

The certification not only guarantees the safety of the flying car but also is the approval that the vehicle can be driven on the roads and flown in the air. Dingemanse said: "Once full certification is granted in 2020 we will hand over the keys of the PAL-V Liberty to our first customers."

The PAL-V Liberty is currently going through the last step of the certification process: compliance demonstration. "It takes a lot of testing to prove that the PAL-V Liberty complies with the regulations," said Mike Stekelenburg, PAL-V's Chief Engineer. He continues: "Our design philosophy of complying with existing road and air regulations saved us many years in time to market. Instead of opting for a flying car concept on the basis of not yet existing or immature technologies, requiring new regulations, we deliberately chose to design, engineer and manufacture a flying car with proven technologies. This approach enables a realistic and imminent first product delivery date."

In the meantime, PAL-V's pioneer clients are building experience at flying schools around the globe in preparation for deliveries commencing in 2020. For them, door to door flydriving is closer than ever.

JetBlue signs commitment for 60 A220-300 aircraft, converts 25 A320neo orders to larger A321neo

Press Release







@JetBlue #A220 #A321neo

JetBlue today became the first customer for the newly-rebranded Airbus A220 aircraft, signing a Memorandum of Understanding for 60 firm orders for the larger A220-300 model. In addition, the airline converted 25 of its current orders for Airbus A320neo aircraft into orders for the larger A321neo. JetBlue’s A321neos and A220s will be powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines.

“JetBlue’s selection of the A220 aircraft as a complement to its growing A320 Family fleet is a tremendous endorsement – both of the A220 itself and of the way these two aircraft can work together to provide airline network flexibility and a great passenger experience,” remarked Eric Schulz, Chief Commercial Officer for Airbus. “JetBlue will be able to leverage the unbeatable efficiency of both the A321neo and the A220-300, as well as taking advantage of the roomiest and most passenger-pleasing cabins of any aircraft in their size categories.”

“We are evolving our fleet for the future of JetBlue, and the A220-300’s impressive range and economics offer us flexibility and support our key financial and operating priorities,” said Robin Hayes, the airline’s chief executive officer. “As JetBlue approaches our 20th anniversary, the A220, combined with our A321 and restyled A320 fleet, will help ensure we deliver the best onboard experience to customers and meet our long-term financial targets as we continue disciplined growth into the future.”

Complementing the A320 Family, the A220-100 and A220-300 models cover the segment between 100 and 150 seats and offer a comfortable five-abreast cabin. With the most advanced aerodynamics, CFRP materials, high-bypass engines and fly-by-wire controls, the A220 delivers 20 percent lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation aircraft. The type will serve a worldwide market for smaller single-aisle airliners, estimated at around 6,000 such aircraft over the next 20 years. Airbus manufactures, markets and supports A220 aircraft under the recently finalized “C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership” (CSALP) agreement.

“The CSALP partnership between Airbus, Bombardier and Investment Quebec is committed to bringing the world the very best aircraft in the 100- to 150-seat market, and JetBlue’s choice of the A220-300 shows that our team is producing a winner,” said Philippe Balducchi, Chief Executive Officer of CSALP. “We look forward to the A220 serving JetBlue and its customers well for many, many years.”

Boeing Reports Second-Quarter Deliveries

Press Release

CHICAGO, July 10, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today deliveries across its commercial and defense operations for the second quarter of 2018.
Major program deliveries during the second quarter were as follows:

Major Programs		2nd Quarter 2018				Year-to-Date 2018
Commercial Airplanes Programs
737		137				269
747		1				3
767		5				9
777		13				25
787		38				72
Total		194				378
Defense, Space & Security Programs
AH-64 Apache (New)		—				—
AH-64 Apache (Remanufactured)		—				6
C-17 Globemaster III		—				—
CH-47 Chinook (New)		5				9
CH-47 Chinook (Renewed)		4				8
F-15 Models		3				5
F/A-18 Models		—				5
P-8 Models		4				8
Commercial and Civil Satellites		—				—
Military Satellites		—				—

Bombardier to Introduce Head-up Display and Enhanced Vision System Option on Best-selling Challenger 350 Aircraft

Press Release

• Lightweight Head-up Display (HUD) from Rockwell Collins will make the best equipped cockpit in the super mid-size segment even better
• The Head-up Display and Enhanced Vision System (EVS) will be available as an option on new Challenger 350 aircraft orders and as a retrofit on in-service models
• The HUD and EVS bring unparalleled situational awareness and improvements in low-visibility conditions
• The Challenger 350 jet was the top-selling aircraft of the super mid-size segment in 2017, and provides optimal cabin comfort with an ultra-quiet in-flight experience

Montreal, July 9, 2018 - Bombardier today announced that it will be offering Head-up Display and Enhanced Vision System as an option on its best-selling Challenger 350 business jets. The HUD and EVS will complement the Challenger 350 aircraft’s best-in-class baseline offering. These systems will further expand the advanced avionics functionalities of the aircraft, such as the powerful Synthetic Vision System (SVS) and sophisticated MultiScan™ weather radar, to reduce pilot workload and enhance overall situational awareness.

“Added to the Challenger 350 aircraft’s already well-equipped flight deck, the HUD and EVS option will enhance the pilot’s situational awareness to provide passengers with an even smoother flight,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “The Challenger 350 jet leads the market in unit sales, and our commitment to continuously innovate and elevate this aircraft clearly demonstrates our promise to offer our customers nothing but the finest experience on board the industry's best-selling business jet.”

The Challenger 350 jet features the best-equipped cockpit in its class. With the addition of the lightweight HUD, the aircraft will allow pilots to fly eyes forward in all phases of flight, most crucially during takeoff and landing. The flight deck on the Challenger 350 aircraft provides critical flight information onto the HUD’s transparent screen. Without needing to look down, pilots can respond with greater speed and precision, while they simultaneously assess their surroundings.

For maximum situational awareness in all flight conditions, the HUD is elevated with a powerful enhanced vision system. The advanced EVS camera transmits live infrared imagery from outside the aircraft to the HUD, revealing runway lighting, surrounding terrain and possible obstacles on the runway. The HUD and EVS combination enables pilots to land with greater confidence. The HUD and EVS will be available as an option on new Challenger 350 aircraft orders and can be installed as a retrofit on in-service models in Bombardier’s extensive network of service centres.

The Challenger 350 aircraft boasts outstanding short-field performance and climbs quickly and directly to 43,000 feet, allowing passengers to reach their destinations efficiently. The aircraft is currently undertaking steep approach certification at London City Airport, a singular advantage that will give operators direct access to one of the world’s great financial centres. Final certification is expected imminently.

Challenger 350 aircraft: Designed with a no-compromise approach, the Challenger 350 aircraft effortlessly blends powerful performance and sleek styling to deliver an unrivalled private jet experience. Industry-leading connectivity, immersive sound and ergonomically-positioned touch screens are seamlessly integrated to create an intuitive and incomparable cabin experience. Paired with impressive high-performance attributes, the Challenger 350 aircraft is designed to access challenging airfields, climb faster, and cruise efficiently while providing a smooth ride. Standing the test of time, the Challenger 300 aircraft series are the best-selling business jets of the last decade.

About Bombardier

With over 69,500 employees across four business segments, Bombardier is a global leader in the transportation industry, creating innovative and game-changing planes and trains. Our products and services provide world-class transportation experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.

Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Bombardier has production and engineering sites in 28 countries across the segments of Transportation, Business Aircraft, Commercial Aircraft and Aerostructures and Engineering Services. Bombardier shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, Bombardier posted revenues of $16.2 billion US. News and information are available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.

UK's NATS Disputes Ryanair Claim of Air Traffic Control Staff Shortages

https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2018/07/10/business/10reuters-ryanair-britain-atc.html

First Israeli lunar spacecraft set to land on moon Feb. 13, 2019, making Israel fourth country to do so

press release




YEHUD, Israel, July 10 – At a historic press conference today at Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)’s MBT Space facility in Yehud, Israel, nonprofit SpaceIL and IAI announced a lunar mission to launch from Cape Canaveral, Fla., this December, and land on the moon on Feb. 13, 2019. A final launch date will be announced closer to the event.

The lunar landing will culminate eight years of intensive collaboration between SpaceIL and IAI, and will make Israel the fourth country after the U.S., China and Russia to reach the moon. The spacecraft will be launched as a secondary payload on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and its journey to the moon will last about two months, ending on its expected landing date. The Israeli lunar spacecraft will be the smallest to land on the moon, weighing only 1,322 pounds, or 600 kilograms.

Approximately $88 million (NIS 320 million) has been invested in the spacecraft’s development and construction, mostly from private donors, headed by SpaceIL President Mr. Morris Kahn, who donated about $27 million, or NIS 100 million.

Mr. Morris Kahn, President of the non-profit organization SpaceIL: “After eight challenging years, I am filled with pride that the first Israeli spacecraft, which is in its final construction and testing phases, will soon be making its way to the moon. I have experienced numerous challenges in my life, but this was the greatest challenge of all. This is a huge achievement for us – SpaceIL – and for our partners, Israel Aerospace Industries, who have been with us since day 1. The launch of the first Israeli spacecraft will fill Israel, in its 70th year, with pride. It is a national accomplishment that will put us on the world’s space map.”

Dr. Ido Anteby, SpaceIL CEO: “SpaceIL, in collaboration with IAI, is embarking on the final leg of its complex mission to land the first Israeli spacecraft on the moon. In the coming months the spacecraft will undergo a series of intensive checks and tests at IAI, to prove that it will withstand the launch, flight and landing conditions. The excellent teams of SpaceIL and IAI are working with determination to complete this unique technological challenge in time for the launch date this December.”

Mr. Yossi Weiss, IAI CEO: “As one who has personally brought the collaboration with SpaceIL to IAI, I regard the launch of the first Israeli spacecraft to the moon as an example of the amazing capabilities once can reach in civilian space activity. The State of Israel, which is already firmly planted in the realm of space in its military activity, must harness resources for the benefit of civilian space, which is an engine of innovation, technology, education and groundbreaking around the world. The accomplishment we will soon achieve is the fruit of intensive labor of many years, of the best of minds. Reaching such an achievement specifically during Israel’s 70th year symbolizes how far we have come, and particularly the endless accomplishments that we can still achieve. IAI will continue doing all that is needed in the coming months to ensure the success of this national mission.”

The initiative

Although this is an historic national achievement, it is essentially a private initiative by the three SpaceIL founders – Yariv Bash, Kfir Damari and Yonatan Winetraub – who strived to fulfill the dream of reaching the moon, and registered for the challenging Google Lunar XPRIZE competition.

Since SpaceIL’s establishment, the mission of landing an Israeli spacecraft on the moon has become a national project embodying educational values, funded by donors such as Dr. Miriam and Mr. Sheldon Adelson, Mr. Sammy Sagol, Mrs. Lynn Schusterman, Mr. Steven Grand and others. Kahn, a businessman and philanthropist, took it upon himself to lead this project and bring it to its completion, and regards it as his personal mission.

IAI, which is the home of Israel’s space activity, has been a full partner in this project from its inception. Over the years, additional partners from the private sector, from government companies and from the academia have joined as well. The most prominent among these are Weizmann Institute of Science; Israel Space Agency; the Ministry of Science, Technology and Space; Bezeq and others.

The spacecraft

The spacecraft’s design and development process, which involved intensive work of engineers, scientists and team members, began in 2013 and continued until last year, when its construction at the IAI MABAT Plant commenced. The spacecraft, which weighs only about 600 kilograms, is considered the smallest to land on the moon. It is 1.5 meters, or over 4.9 feet high, 2 meters or 6 and a half feet in diameter, and the fuel it will carry will comprise some 75 percent of its total weight. Its maximum speed will reach more than 10 km per second (36,000 kilometers, or nearly 22,370 miles, per hour).

SpaceIL’s spacecraft will be launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida. It will be the secondary payload, launched with other satellites.

The spacecraft’s journey to the moon

SpaceIL CEO Dr. Ido Anteby revealed the spacecraft’s course to the moon during the press event. From the moment of its launch, it will begin a long, complex flight course. The spacecraft will disengage from the launch rocket at an altitude of 60,000 kilometers, or 37,282 miles, and will begin orbiting Earth in elliptical orbits. Upon receipt of a command from the control room, the spacecraft will enter a higher altitude elliptical orbit around Earth, which will reach a point near the moon. At this point, it will ignite its engines and reduce its speed to allow the moon’s gravity to capture it. It will then begin orbiting the moon, until the appropriate time to begin the landing process. This process will be executed autonomously by the spacecraft’s navigation control system. The entire journey, from launch to landing, will last approximately two months.

The mission

Upon its landing on February 13, 2019, the spacecraft, carrying the Israeli flag, will begin taking photos and video of the landing site and will measure the moon’s magnetic field as part of a scientific experiment conducted in collaboration with Weizmann Institute. The data will be transmitted to the IAI control room during the two days following the landing.

SpaceIL was the only Israeli contestant in the international Google Lunar XPRIZE competition. To win the first prize of $20 million, the participants were required to land an unmanned spacecraft on the moon. The competition ended officially with no winner on March 31, when Google announced that it would no longer sponsor it.

After succeeding in raising the critical funds to continue its activity, SpaceIL announced that it was determined to continue on its mission and to launch its spacecraft by the end of the year, regardless of the competition. Concurrently, the non-profit is continuing its efforts to raise the funds necessary to complete this mission.

SpaceIL aims to set in motion an “Apollo effect” in Israel: To encourage the next generation of Israeli children to choose to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM); to change their perception of these subjects; to generate a sense of capability; and to allow them to dream big dreams even in our small country. The non-profit aims to change the discourse in Israel and to encourage boys and girls to regard science, engineering, technology and math as exciting opportunities for their future. In recent years, SpaceIL has ignited the imagination of about 900,000 children nationwide, with the help of a broad network of volunteers.


About SpaceIL:

SpaceIL is a nonprofit organization established in 2011 aiming to land the first Israeli spacecraft on the moon. Founded by three young engineers, Yariv Bash, Kfir Damari and Yonatan Winetraub, SpaceIL sought to answer the international challenge presented by Google’s $20 million Lunar X Prize: to build, launch and land an unmanned spacecraft on the moon. SpaceIL is continuing with its mission to the moon despite the contest’s expiration without a winner. http://www.spaceil.com

About Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI):

IAI Ltd. is Israel’s largest aerospace and Defense Company and a globally recognized technology and innovation leader, specializing in developing and manufacturing advanced, state-of-the-art systems for air, space, sea, land, cyber and homeland security. Since 1953, the company has provided advanced technology solutions to government and commercial customers worldwide including: satellites, missiles, weapon systems and munitions, unmanned and robotic systems, radars, C4ISR and more. IAI also designs and manufactures business jets and aerostructures, performs overhaul and maintenance on commercial aircraft and converts passenger aircraft to refueling and cargo configurations. http://www.iai.co.il/

SkyGuardian Takes Off From North Dakota On Trans-Atlantic Flight

press release




GA-ASI Making History with First-Time Flight of MALE RPA trans-Atlantic

GRAND FORKS – 10 July 2018 – Today at 12:48 p.m. CDT a Medium-altitude, Long-endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) produced by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA‑ASI) took off from Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA on the first-ever trans-Atlantic flight of a MALE RPA. GA-ASI’s company-owned MQ-9B SkyGuardian is in flight, bound for Royal Air Force (RAF) Fairford in Gloucestershire, UK, where it is scheduled to land at approximately 6:45 p.m. local time (GMT+1) on July 11th.

“This is a very exciting moment in GA-ASI’s history,” said Linden Blue, CEO, GA-ASI. “To demonstrate the long endurance of unmanned aircraft systems, we took on the challenge of flying a MALE RPA across the Atlantic. This effort has taken a lot of coordination and we appreciate the support of the CAA, RIAT organization and the RAF in this endeavor.”

Over the past 10 years, the RAF has operated GA-ASI’s MQ-9 Reapers® in various theatres of operation. The RAF is celebrating its 100-year anniversary (RAF100), and to commemorate the event GA-ASI is flying SkyGuardian to RAF Fairford, where the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) airshow will be held July 13-15. SkyGuardian will be on static display during the show. The RAF is acquiring MQ-9B for its PROTECTOR RG Mk1 program.

MQ-9B is the new generation of GA-ASI’s multi-mission Predator® B product line. The company named its baseline MQ-9B aircraft SkyGuardian, and the maritime surveillance variant SeaGuardian. MQ-9B is a “certifiable” (STANAG 4671-compliant) version of the Predator B product line. Its development is the result of a five-year, company-funded effort to deliver a RPA system that can meet the stringent airworthiness type-certification requirements of various military and civil authorities, including the UK Military Airworthiness Authority (MAA) and the U.S. FAA.

Inmarsat Government is supporting GA-ASI’s flight with its L-band SATCOM service, SwiftBroadband, which provides resilient, seamless backup-connectivity throughout the duration of the flight. SkyGuardian and its North Dakota-based ground control station are using SATCOM to communicate with and control the aircraft, to include the command for automatic landing at Fairford.

“Inmarsat has been servicing the demanding ‘anywhere, anytime’ nature of airborne operations for decades, and is the market leader in providing reliable, global, mobile L- and Ka-band connectivity,” said Kai Tang, chief commercial officer, Inmarsat Government. “Reliable SATCOM is a critical enabler for any mission, and this trans-Atlantic flight test has vividly highlighted its importance. This is a truly historical event made possible by ingenuity and impressive integration and engineering from the GA team, and Inmarsat is very proud to be a part of it.”

The service also provides full flexibility in route selection for the long-endurance flight, while supporting mission-critical and time-sensitive data transmission, including imagery and video.

High-resolution photos of MQ-9B SkyGuardian are available to qualified media outlets from the listed GA-ASI media contact. For more information on the trans-Atlantic flight, go to http://www.ga-asi.com/trans-atlantic-flight.

About GA-ASI

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is the leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than 5 million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent flight that enables situational awareness and rapid strike. The company also produces a variety of ground control stations and sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas. For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

Reaper, Predator, and Lynx are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

About Inmarsat Government

The U.S. government has relied on and trusted Inmarsat satellite services since 1979. Inmarsat Government continues to deliver the world’s most advanced global, mobile satellite communication services to U.S. defense, intelligence, homeland security, public safety and civilian agencies, with highly reliable, secure and affordable connectivity. Built with government users in mind, Inmarsat Government provides resilient, flexible capabilities to augment government satellite resources, anytime, anywhere. Leveraging an industry-leading scalable multiband network infrastructure, Inmarsat Government offers a suite of managed network services and end-to-end communication solutions to support users on land, at sea and in the air, even in the world's most remote regions. Headquartered in Reston, VA, Inmarsat Government is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Inmarsat plc. For more information, please visit www.inmarsatgov.com.

The Inmarsat press release newsfeed and corporate updates are on @InmarsatGlobal.

CSeries becomes Airbus A220-100 and A220-300

In Leeham news:
https://leehamnews.com/2018/07/10/cseries-becomes-airbus-a220-100-and-a220-300/

In Airbus' Press Release
Airbus introduces the A220-100 and A220-300

Québec-born aircraft join the Airbus family

Airbus has revealed the A220 at a ceremony held at its Henri-Ziegler Delivery Centre, near Toulouse. Witnessed by Airbus employees and members of the global news media, the A220-300 landed directly from the painting at 12:25 am CEST wearing its new Airbus name and colours.

The A220 family comprises two models, the A220-100 and A220-300, formerly Bombardier Inc.’s C Series (CS100 and CS300). The aircraft are fully optimized for the 100 to 150 seat market and perfectly complement Airbus’ existing best-selling A320neo family.

“Everyone at Airbus has been looking forward to this historic moment. Today, we are thrilled to welcome the A220 to the Airbus family and are honoured to see it wearing its new Airbus colours for the first time,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus President Commercial Aircraft, “I pay tribute to all the women and men at Bombardier and the supply chain who have strived over the past years to bring this fantastic aircraft to the world. The A220 now enters a new phase in its career with all Airbus’ ressources behind it to further its commercial success worldwide."

Eric Schulz, Airbus Chief Commercial Officier, added: “We are enthusiastic about selling the A220 thanks in particular to its technology which gives it a decisive edge in a very competitive market. I have received a lot of positive feedback from customers regarding the aircraft’s outstanding passenger experience, its lower fuel burn, lower weight and quieter engines. All these reasons contribute to my optimism that Airbus will support to make the A220 a great commercial success."